help me choose a biostat masters program

[aspiringmathematician]

Hi guys,

Not sure if anyone will be kind enough to respond, but here goes. I'm a California resident, and finances do matter since I'll be taking out loans.

I got into a few masters programs:

1. UCLA M.S Biostat

2. Emory M.S Biostat

3. University of Michigan M.S Biostat

4. Brown University M.S Biostat

 

Waitlisted for University of Chicago M.S Statistics

I don't think I received any financial aid for any of the programs but Brown is offering me about 25% off my tuition which is roughly $51,000. 

Anybody have any opinions?

[rising_star]

My first choice would be none of the above because paying for a master's, even in STEM, is a bad idea. But, since you're a California resident, UCLA would probably be the least expensive option.

[beerkatmanor]

An MS in Biostatistics does actually prepare you quite well for the workforce and PhD programs (just look at the alumni updates page from top schools, all of the graduates from even the past year go on to work at awesome places). UCLA is so affordable compared to other programs (12k tuition for residents), and I know that their faculty and staff is very supportive and invested in their students. Plus, they're the top rated of the programs you've listed. All the advice I can offer, don't know anything about the other schools.

[MathDreamer]

Emory wouldn't be a bad program to look into. I know of a few people that went there and they had nothing but positive things to say. Also, the quality life would be quite good for someone younger, since living cost in Atlanta is quite affordable, especially for a vibrant metropolitan area with such a diverse culture.